Types of Computer Networks

A computer network is a group of interconnected devices that communicate with each other.

 LAN (Local Area Network) is a network that connects devices within a small geographical area
like an office or building.
 WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) is a wireless network that allows devices to connect
without physical cables.
 MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) is a network that connects devices within a larger
geographical area like a city.
 WAN (Wide Area Network) is a network that connects devices over a wide geographical area like
a country or even globally.
 CAN (Campus Area Network) is a network that connects devices within a campus or university.
 SAN (Storage Area Network) is a network that provides access to storage devices like disks and
tapes.
 VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a network that provides a secure and encrypted connection
over a public network like the internet.
 Intranet is a private network that is only accessible within an organization.
 Extranet is a network that allows external users like suppliers or customers to access an
organization's network.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Networks

Advantages

 Enables centralized applications hosting/data storage and users accessing it through LAN, MAN,
WAN in a secure way.
 Results in considerable cost saving thro centralized administration.
 Provides Real-time information to users.
 Ensures data integrity.
 Enables business transactions, net banking across any geography.
 Optimizes software license usage and resource utilization.
 Provides a collaboration platform for employees and reduces travel cost.

Disadvantages

 Vulnerability to cyber-attacks due to the exposure of the network to the outside world.
 Set up cost is huge.
 Sensitive Data need to be encrypted and protected through the firewall.
 The administration of networks poses a challenge due to their size and spread.

Types of Network Topology

Bus Topology - In this topology, all devices are connected to a single cable called the bus. It is a simple
and cost-effective topology but can lead to network congestion.

Star Topology - In this topology, all devices are connected to a central hub or switch. It is a popular and
scalable topology but can be costly.

Ring Topology - In this topology, all devices are connected in a closed loop. It is a reliable topology but
can be difficult to troubleshoot.

Mesh Topology - In this topology, all devices are connected to each other. It is a highly reliable and
fault-tolerant topology but can be costly and complex.
Hybrid Topology - This is a combination of two or more topologies. It offers the advantages of multiple
topologies but can be complex to design and maintain.

The OSI Model, which stands for Open Systems Interconnection Model, is a conceptual framework used
to describe the functions of a networking system. It is made up of seven layers, each with its own
specific function and purpose:

 Physical Layer

The lowest layer of the OSI Model

Handles the physical connections between devices

Deals with the transmission and reception of unstructured raw data

 Data Link Layer

Ensures reliable transmission of data across a physical connection

Divided into two sub-layers: LLC and MAC

Handles error detection and correction, and flow control

 Network Layer

Provides logical addressing and routing services

Responsible for routing data packets between different networks

 Transport Layer

Responsible for end-to-end communication

Provides reliable data transfer and error recovery

Commonly used protocols include TCP and UDP

 Session Layer

Establishes, manages, and terminates sessions between applications

Provides services such as authentication and encryption

 Presentation Layer

Responsible for data translation and transformation

Deals with data encryption, compression, and other formatting tasks

 Application Layer

The topmost layer of the OSI Model

Provides services to end-user applications

Includes protocols such as HTTP, SMTP, and FTP